The conclusion of this MLS season is Sunday as Columbus Crew SC host the Portland Timbers in the 2015 MLS Cup. In many ways, these teams deserve to play for the title. Columbus finished second in the Eastern Conference with one of the best offenses in the league. Portland have been the hottest team in the league over the last two months and had one of the best defenses in the league. Here are the biggest storylines heading into the weekend.
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5. Gregg Berhalter vs. Caleb Porter
Winslow Townson-USA TODAY SportsCaleb Porter was the hotshot hire for Portland a couple years ago and has shown his adaptability this season. Meanwhile, Gregg Berhalter has transformed his squad at a vital time when the brand was changing. The tactics of both coaches should make for an entertaining match. Regardless, both coaches have shown their talents in the playoff run.
4. Argentine Playmakers
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Diego Valeri played a big role in the clinching goal against FC Dallas. His creativity will be on display in Columbus, and it would be a good bet to think he will get an assist if Portland scores. For Columbus, Federico Higuain will be all over the field looking for openings to spur the offense. Higuain is not afraid to shoot from distance either. The Argentine players will have great impact on the match.
3. Columbus' Defensive Midfielders
Bill Streicher-USA TODAY SportsIn the conference championship Columbus held the New York Red Bulls, the league's highest-scoring offense, off the board for 183 minutes. Tony Tchani and Wil Trapp shut down the opposition attack. Tchani and Trapp will have to get the best of Valeri and Darlington Nagbe for Columbus to have a chance.
2. Impact Subs
Tim Heitman-USA TODAY SportsLucas Melano scored the dagger goal against FC Dallas. The extra offensive player was used as Porter's way to hold the lead rather than sit back. Cedrick Mabwati has been the impact player for Columbus. Neither team will make many changes on Sunday, but these two players could have an important role in the dying minutes of the game.
1. Will There Be One More Yes Chant In Columbus?
Crew SC keeper Steve Clark has led the supporters in the chant after wins for the better part of the season. The chant is widely known thanks to Daniel Bryan of the WWE, but the Columbus fans have enjoyed using it. If Crew SC win on Sunday this will likely be the loudest chant yet.
